Celebrating our seniors and their accomplishments

In December 1990, the United Nations General Assembly designated October 1st as the International Day of Older Persons, to dedicate a day, globally, towards recognizing the contributions of older adults.

The Manitoba government has proclaimed October as Seniors’ and Elders’ Month in order to celebrate the ways older Manitobans have shaped the economic, social and cultural fabric of our province.

The theme for Seniors’ and Elders’ Month this year is "Celebrate! Participate!"

Three residents at Riverwood Square (Independent Living and Supportive Housing) do, indeed, have much to celebrate!

All three have reached the amazing age of 100 years young. Congratulations to our three centenarians, Betty Potoroka, Kathleen Schledelwitz and Jean Mitchell on reaching this incredible milestone.

I can only imagine the stories these three women could tell of the changes and developments they have seen in the world throughout their 100 years.

In terms of participation, Fort Richmond is very fortunate to have excellent resources available for older adults.

One example is the Fort Garry Seniors Resource Council (FGSRC), a community-based, non-profit organization that provides support and services to older adults. The FGSRC works to assist seniors in remaining a vital part of the community they helped build. The community resource co-ordinator, Patti Berube, can be reached at 204-452-0239.

Patti can provide information on topics such as health and wellness services, housing options and meal programs, as well as other available services.

Furthermore, Pembina Active Living 55+ (PAL) strives to enhance the quality of life for older adults in south Winnipeg by encouraging them to remain active and participate in a wide variety of activities. Examples of activities include watercolours, yoga and weight training.

For more information, you can visit the new PAL website at pal55plus.ca or phone 204-946-0839.

Lastly, I am very pleased to host a seniors’ drop-in at the constituency office every second Tuesday morning. My hope is to give our older adults an opportunity to exchange ideas, laugh and learn from each other as well as from a variety of guest speakers. Please call our office at 204-475-9433 if you are interested in attending.

Older adults strengthen our community with their vitality, energy and wisdom.

You can comment on most stories on winnipegfreepress.com. You can also agree or disagree with other comments.
All you need to do is be a Winnipeg Free Press print or e-edition subscriber to join the conversation and give your feedback.